Military / SkillBridge Program
Turn your military service into a civilian aviation career. Tradewind Flight Services is a DoD-approved SkillBridge partner offering structured flight training for transitioning service members.
Program Overview
From Service to the Skies
The DoD SkillBridge program allows active-duty service members within 180 days of separation to gain civilian work experience through industry-specific training — at no cost to you. Tradewind Flight Services is proud to be a DoD-approved SkillBridge partner, offering a direct pathway from military service into professional aviation.
Your military background — discipline, situational awareness, crew resource management, and mission focus — gives you a head start that civilian students simply don't have. We build on those strengths with structured flight training designed to move you efficiently toward FAA certification.
Eligibility Requirements
- Active-duty service member within 180 days of separation
- Unit commander authorization to participate
- Ability to complete the program before your separation date
- Meet role-specific minimum qualifications
- Completion of your Service's transition assistance program recommended
How It Works
Your Path Through SkillBridge
Apply & Get Approved
Contact your installation's SkillBridge point of contact and obtain unit commander authorization to participate in the program.
Connect with Tradewind
Reach out to our team to discuss your background, timeline, and training goals. We'll match you with the right training track.
Begin Flight Training
Start your FAA-structured flight training while maintaining your DoD employment status and pay — the internship is unpaid by the civilian employer.
Earn FAA Certificates
Progress through Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, and Commercial Pilot certificates with dedicated instructor support.
Build Flight Hours
Continue building the flight hours needed for advanced ratings and airline minimums, with a clear plan for post-separation continuation.
Transition to Civilian Career
Graduate with FAA credentials, a professional network, and a clear path to a civilian aviation career — from regional airlines to corporate flight departments.
Who This Program Serves
Built for Those Who Served
Military Pilots
Already hold a military pilot rating? We can help you convert your experience to FAA certificates and build toward commercial or ATP credentials.
Aviation Maintenance Personnel
Military aviation maintainers bring deep technical knowledge. Transition that expertise into a civilian aviation career with FAA-recognized training.
Non-Aviation Veterans
No aviation background? No problem. Your military discipline and training mindset are exactly what it takes to succeed in flight training.
National Guard & Reserves
Select members of the National Guard and Reserves within 180 days of their separation date may also be eligible to participate.
Program Benefits
Why Choose Tradewind for SkillBridge
DoD-Approved Partner
Verified & Trusted
Tradewind is an approved DoD SkillBridge employer, ensuring your participation is fully recognized and your training counts.
No Out-of-Pocket Cost
During Active Service
While participating in SkillBridge, you continue to receive your military pay and benefits — the training itself is provided at no cost to you.
Veteran-Aligned Culture
We Speak Your Language
Our instructors and staff understand military culture. We translate your service experience into aviation credentials without starting from zero.
Clear Career Pathway
From Day One
We don't just train you — we help you plan your post-separation aviation career, from regional airlines to corporate and government aviation.
Ready to Start Your Transition?
Contact our team today to learn more about the SkillBridge program at Tradewind Flight Services and take the first step toward your civilian aviation career.